To read a New York cannabis label, start with THC and CBD content, serving information, the expiration date, the lot or batch identifier, and the code that provides access to the Certificate of Analysis (COA). Check the ingredients, storage instructions and warnings before opening the product.
A package can carry several numbers, and they answer different questions. The amount in the full container, the amount in a serving and the net weight are separate measurements. Here is a plain-language guide for adults 21 and older from Upstate Canna Co. in Schenectady.
New York cannabis labels at a glance
| Look for | What it tells you |
|---|---|
| Total THC and CBD | Cannabinoid amounts, expressed in milligrams or percentages depending on product type |
| Serving information | The serving size, number of servings and amount per serving for non-inhalable products |
| Expiration date | The unopened product’s expiration under its stated storage conditions |
| Lot or batch identifier | Which production lot the package belongs to |
| QR code or scannable barcode | Access to a downloadable lab report |
| Universal cannabis symbol | A notice that the package contains cannabis |
| Processor information | The processor’s identity, license and contact details |
How to read THC, CBD and serving size
For inhalable products, such as flower and pre-rolls, look for total THC and CBD as percentages. For other cannabis products, look for milligrams per serving and per package, plus serving size and serving count. These distinctions appear in New York’s adult-use packaging and labeling rules, section 128.5.
On an edible package, read the serving information before counting pieces. If a container has 100 mg of total THC across 10 equal servings, each serving contains 10 mg. That calculation describes the label; it is not a recommendation to consume that amount.
One piece does not always equal one serving. A single item may contain multiple servings, so use the manufacturer’s serving instructions rather than the item’s size or appearance.
Check ingredients, expiration and storage
Read the ingredient and allergen information, especially on edible products. Follow the usage instructions relevant to the product.
The required expiration date applies to the unopened product. Follow any separate after-opening instructions supplied by the manufacturer. Keep the package closed and follow its storage directions.
The OCM cannabis-label fact sheet advises keeping products in their original child-resistant packaging, out of sight and out of reach of young people and pets. Keep the label with the product so its instructions and lot information remain available.
Scan the code and match the COA
A Certificate of Analysis is a laboratory report with cannabinoid and contaminant testing results. The package’s scannable barcode or QR code must provide access to a downloadable COA, either directly or through a webpage.
- Scan the code and open the lab report.
- Compare the package’s lot or batch identifier with the report.
- Find the cannabinoid results and contaminant testing sections.
If the link is broken, the identifiers do not match or the report is hard to interpret, ask the dispensary for help before using the product. A report for a different batch does not answer questions about the package in your hand.
Read the symbol and warnings
Licensed New York adult-use retail packages must display the state’s universal cannabis symbol. Treat it as a cannabis-content notice, rather than a guarantee about the product or its effects.
Read every warning on the package. Different product types carry different cautions. For edible products, pay attention to the delayed-effects warning; the serving calculation alone does not tell you when effects will begin.
Frequently asked questions
Does a cannabis label tell me how a product will make me feel?
No. A label lists product contents, cannabinoid amounts and warnings. It cannot predict your individual experience.
Why do edible labels show milligrams instead of percentages?
Milligrams show the amount of THC or CBD in a serving and in the full package. Check the serving size printed on the label; one piece is not always one serving.
Can I ask Upstate Canna Co. about a label before ordering?
Yes. Visit 1613 Union St, Schenectady, NY 12309, or call 518-280-4289. For delivery, enter your complete address in the online menu to check eligibility and available options.
Bring your label questions to Upstate Canna Co.
If a number or instruction is unclear, bring the package information to our Schenectady team or call 518-280-4289. Adults 21 and older can browse the current online menu and check delivery availability for their address. For ordering details, read how cannabis delivery works in Schenectady.
Upstate Canna Co. · 1613 Union St, Schenectady, NY 12309 · License: OCM-CAURD-23-000005.
For use only by persons 21 years of age and older. Keep out of reach of children and pets. If someone accidentally consumes cannabis, contact the Poison Center. Consume responsibly.
Cannabis can be addictive.
Poison Center: 1-800-222-1222. For support with substance use, call the New York State HOPEline at 1-877-846-7369, text 467369 (HOPENY), or visit oasas.ny.gov/hopeline.